Santonio Holmes to Make Preseason Debut Sunday

Doug Pensinger/Getty Images(FLORHAM PARK, NJ) -- New York Jets wide receiver Santonio Holmes will make his long-awaited preseason debut on Sunday night against the Carolina Panthers.

Holmes, who has not played in a real game for the Jets since he was benched in the 2011 regular season finale, is looking to boost a struggling offense that has yet to produce a touchdown during the preseason.

Quarterback Mark Sanchez and company have yet to score a touchdown in eight offensive possessions.

Holmes was injured in an August 4 intrasquad scrimmage during training camp in Cortland, New York when he was hit by cornerback Antonio Cromartie.

He returned to practice on a limited basis this week but was deemed ready to play by team trainers. Holmes is the only proven veteran receiver on the Jets.

Jets Head Coach Rex Ryan expects the starters to play into the third quarter against the Panthers, and is hoping the return of Holmes will inject some life into the offense.

Holmes is going into his third season with the Jets after coming over in a trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2010.

The receiver had 51 receptions for 658 yards and eight touchdowns in 2011.